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When Is a Dental Crown Needed?

Dental crowns are essential for protecting and restoring damaged teeth. At Dr. Kole Dental Clinic, crowns are used for the following reasons:

– To protect or restore a tooth that has fractured due to an accident or trauma.

– To replace a tooth that is too large for a filling.

– To cap an implant.

– To restore a tooth after root canal treatment (RCT).

– To cover discolored, misshaped, or badly formed teeth.

– To support a dental bridge, which necessitates crowns.

Additionally, dental crowns enhance the strength, shape, and size of your tooth, improving its appearance. Delaying the placement of a recommended crown can lead to further tooth damage, potentially necessitating extraction. Furthermore, not getting a dental crown can cause wear on adjacent teeth, leading to additional damage.

Types of Dental Crowns

Dental crowns come in various materials, each with specific advantages:

– Metal Crowns: Ideal for long-term durability, metal crowns, especially gold ones, bond well with the tooth and withstand hard chewing forces. They are mainly used for molars due to their visibility.

– Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM) Crowns: Combining strength and aesthetics, PFM crowns have a metal interior and a porcelain exterior, matching the natural tooth color while providing durability.

– Ceramic Crowns: For those who prefer metal-free crowns, ceramic crowns offer strength comparable to metal crowns and blend seamlessly with your tooth color. They are suitable for front and back teeth and bridges but may not be ideal for molars due to the forces applied while biting.

Do’s and Don’ts with Dental Crowns

Do’s:

– Maintain good oral hygiene by brushing, rinsing, and flossing regularly.

– Use a mouthguard if you clench your teeth to protect the crown.

– Ensure crowns are placed by a trained dental expert to maximize their longevity.

– Visit your dentist every six months to maintain optimal oral health.

Don’ts:

– Avoid using your teeth as tools to prevent pressure and damage to the crown.

– Do not bite your nails or chew on pencils.

– Refrain from chewing ice or hard candy.

– Avoid sticky foods.

– Limit consumption of extremely hot or cold foods to prevent sensitivity.

Myths About Dental Crowns

– Dental Crowns Do Not Look Natural: Modern crowns are designed to match natural teeth, and materials like porcelain and ceramic blend seamlessly.

– Crowns Last Forever: While crowns are durable, they do not last a lifetime. Regular dental visits can help maintain their longevity.

– Food and Beverages Stain Crowns: Crowns made of porcelain or ceramic are resistant to staining.

– Only Used for Restorative Dentistry: Crowns are also used in cosmetic dentistry to enhance appearance and achieve a whiter, more beautiful smile.

– Dental Crowns Do Not Break or Chip: Despite their durability, crowns can break if exposed to extreme forces or trauma.

– You Cannot Get Cavities with Crowns: While crowns themselves do not decay, the underlying tooth can, making oral hygiene crucial.

Cost of Dental Bridges and Crowns

The cost of dental bridges and crowns varies based on the type chosen. For instance, all-porcelain bridges are more expensive than metal ones. At Dr. Kole Dental Clinic, we offer affordable options and payment plans, including EMIs, to make treatment accessible.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What Is the Cost of Dental Crowns?

   Dental crowns may be more expensive than fillings, but they last longer. Visit Dr. Kole Dental Clinic for detailed pricing information.

2. How Long Does a Dental Crown Last?

   Depending on the material and oral hygiene, dental crowns can last between 5 to 15 years. Maintaining oral hygiene is crucial for longevity.

3. Do Dental Crowns Hurt?

   Local anesthetic is administered before the procedure, so it is not painful. Some soreness and sensitivity may occur once the anesthetic wears off, but it typically subsides in a few days.

4. Do You Need a Dental Crown After RCT?

   Yes, crowns are essential after root canal treatment to provide strength and stability to the treated tooth.

For more information or to schedule an appointment, visit Dr. Kole Dental Clinic. We are dedicated to providing the best dental care and ensuring your smile stays healthy and beautiful.